NDLEA Seizes ₦9.3 Billion Worth of Opioids in Rivers State: A Major Blow to Nigeria’s Drug Trafficking Networks
In a significant operation, the National Drug Law Enforcement Agency (NDLEA) has intercepted illicit drugs valued at over ₦9.3 billion at the Port Harcourt Ports Complex in Onne, Rivers State. This seizure marks one of the largest in recent times, underscoring the agency’s intensified efforts to combat drug trafficking in Nigeria.
🚢 The Seizure: A Detailed Breakdown
Between May 28 and 30, 2025, NDLEA operatives, in collaboration with the Nigeria Customs Service and other security agencies, conducted a joint examination of seven watch-listed containers. The operation led to the discovery of:
825,200 bottles of codeine-based syrup and Trodol, with a street value of ₦5.78 billion.
5.1 million pills of tapentadol (225mg), valued at ₦3.57 billion.
The combined street value of these opioids amounts to ₦9.35 billion.
🌍 Nationwide Crackdown: Other Significant Operations
The NDLEA’s efforts extend beyond Rivers State, with notable operations across the country:
Kano State: Two Saudi-bound pilgrims were arrested at Mallam Aminu Kano International Airport for ingesting 90 wraps of cocaine, totaling 1.04kg. Subsequent investigations led to the arrest of three alleged kingpins behind the smuggling operation.
Adamawa State: 390 compressed blocks of skunk cannabis, weighing 275.3kg, were recovered from an abandoned vehicle along the Ngurore–Yola road.
Kwara State: A notorious female drug dealer, Alhaja Mutiat Abdul-Fatai, was apprehended in Ilorin, with various quantities of tramadol, flunitrazepam, and codeine-based syrup seized from her hideout.
🛡️ NDLEA’s Commitment to Drug Control
The NDLEA continues to balance efforts between reducing drug supply and demand. Chairman/Chief Executive Officer Brig. Gen. Mohamed Buba Marwa (Rtd) commended the agency’s officers for their dedication and successful operations.
As part of its War Against Drug Abuse (WADA) initiative, the NDLEA has conducted sensitization lectures in several schools across the country, including:
Government Day Senior Secondary School, Kwasarawa, Katsina.
Corpus Christi College, Achi, Enugu.
Epignosis Standard College, Onitsha, Anambra.
Government Girls Secondary School, Utai, Kano.
Government Girls Secondary School, Calabar, Cross River.
📸 Visual Coverage
For a visual account of the NDLEA’s recent operations, you can watch the following news coverage:
The NDLEA’s recent operations highlight the agency’s unwavering commitment to eradicating drug trafficking in Nigeria. These efforts not only disrupt illicit drug networks but also contribute to safeguarding public health and national security.
